A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Defence said that Anzio Company has been operating from Patrol Base Khaamar, conducting security and reassurance patrols to the local nationals with both the Afghan National Police and Afghan National Army. "During a joint patrol with the Afghan national security forces to prevent insurgent intimidation of local villagers, Lance Bombardier Chandler was killed in action during a small arms fire engagement with insurgent forces."

Lance Bombardier Chandler leaves behind his parents, Mike and Ann, and brother Steve. His family said: "Mark - a son and brother any parent would be proud of. A consummate soldier, a skier, a luger, an athlete and a lover of life. He will be sorely missed by his loving family and friends."

Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Williams, Commanding Officer 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, said: "Lance Bombardier Chandler, known to everybody as Chandler 'Bing', was a remarkably talented junior non-commissioned officer, who showed a real grit for soldiering. Fit, committed, loyal and a true professional, he was a rising star within the regiment and had a bright future ahead of him."

Defence Secretary Liam Fox said: "Lance Bombardier Mark Chandler has given his life protecting the national security of his country. His colleagues proudly talk of a brave and committed man and a trusted, professional soldier who will be sorely missed. I extend my deepest sympathies to his family and those close to him."It was announced earlier that another British soldier was killed by a blast in southern Afghanistan.

The serviceman, from the 2nd Battalion The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment, attached to 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment, died in the Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand province. His family has been informed. The British death toll since operations in Afghanistan began in 2001 now stands at 294.